Client/Server and the Knowledge Directory

Abstract

Data, information, and knowledge are three related but not interchangeable concepts. Data are a set of discrete, objective facts about events. Information is organized data presented in context. Data become information when their creator adds meaning or value. Similarly, knowledge derives from information as information derives from data. Knowledge can be viewed as information in context, together with an understanding of how to use it. Knowledge can be either explicit (knowledge for which a person is able to make available for inspection) or tacit (knowledge for which a person is unable to make available for inspection) (Brooking, 1999; Davenpot & Prusak, 1998). In Table 1, a list of knowledge that is particularly critical for business organizations is given.